Warwickshire County Council’s Cabinet has agreed that the former Great Alne Primary School site should be used for specialist education provision, in a move that could help meet demand for pla...
Warwickshire County Council’s Cabinet has agreed that the former Great Alne Primary School site should be used for specialist education provision, in a move that could help meet demand for places for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
The proposal, which is subject to funding and the completion of the necessary statutory, feasibility and consultation processes, would see the site used to provide up to 40 specialist places for primary-aged children with autism, speech, language and communication needs, and/or social, emotional and mental health needs.
The proposal would also support the Council’s aim of retaining the site for educational use following the closure of Great Alne Primary School in July 2026.
Cllr Wayne Briggs, Portfolio Holder for Children and Families, Education and SEND, said: “I’m delighted that we’re exploring the potential to give this site a new purpose supporting children who need specialist education. I know the closure of the primary school was difficult for the local community, but this proposal offers a chance to keep that educational connection in the village while also helping meet the need for more specialist places across Warwickshire.”
The Cabinet decision is an important first step, but further work and approvals are needed before the proposed provision can go ahead. A request for capital funding to adapt the site and buildings is due to be considered by Cabinet in December 2026. Further feasibility work and discussions with the Department for Education will also help determine the most appropriate way to deliver the provision.
The next stages will include the necessary consultation and engagement, alongside any required statutory processes and permissions. Planning permission may also be needed for works to improve access to the site. The proposal remains subject to these further steps, including approval of the capital funding, and there is not yet a confirmed opening date.
If approved and delivered, the provision would contribute towards addressing the identified gap in primary-age specialist education places in Stratford district, while allowing the former school site to continue serving an educational purpose.
To read the Cabinet report for this item, visit: Great Alne - proposals for site